Blockbuster film franchise Transformers will get something of a reboot in 2014, when the fourth instalment in the series hits cinemas - with none of its original (human) cast.

With filming set to kick off next year, director Michael Bay has announced the first of the film's new stars: action man and former rapper Mark Wahlberg.

“Mark is awesome. We had a blast working on Pain and Gain and I’m so fired up to be back working with him. An actor of his calibre is the perfect guy to reinvigorate the franchise and carry on the Transformers’ legacy,” Bay said.

At this stage, the new cast is the only confirmed change, and Bay has confirmed the film will continue the story laid out in last year's Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon.

Reports suggest the film will take on a darker, more adult-oriented tone.

Details of a new carmaker partnership are still to be revealed, but as a successful vehicle for advertising new models and concepts in the General Motors family, the current alliance is expected to continue.